Emotional Support

Finding out you have HIV is often a huge shock and can be extremely stressful. You may feel like your whole world has just collapsed and you find it is very difficult to cope with emotionally. The concept of you having HIV can also be a immense challenge for your partner to deal with and to accept. He or she may feel similar emotions to you and be devastated, scared and confused as well. Even though this is a time you need support, it can be detrimental to a relationship if you and/or your partner find it too distressing. Additionally, you may start to experience discrimination from people around you, like in your personal relationships, housing and employment. It is extremely important to overcome these emotional effects, since feeling distressed will impact your overall wellbeing, which in turn will impact your overall health. It is important to remain strong and find appropriate support.

Sexual Health Australia offers counselling and support for individuals and/or their partners who are learning to accept and to live with HIV. In the counselling sessions you are encouraged to express your feelings and emotions. Additionally, we will provide further education and information about the condition and we will guide you in taking the appropriate steps to coping with the situation emotionally. You are supported to develop goals and skills to deal with the challenge together and/or individually. The counsellor is respectful and mindful of the individual and relationship challenges, your norms and your values. Additionally, the sessions are completely confidential.

If you wish to make an appointment with one of our friendly counsellors, please don't hesitate to contact us at: